Hepatic Trace-mineral Concentrations in the Bovine Fetus and Neonate

Mineral deficiencies affect a variety of physiologic functions, including immunity, fetal development and metabolism. Understanding the role of mineral nutrition in animal health has prompted a need for accurate assessment and interpretation of mineral status relative to disease potential. Newer analytical technologies allow rapid measurement of multiple mineral concentrations in blood or tissue samples. Diagnostic interpretation of adult animal tissue mineral concentrations has been well defined. In contrast, diagnostic criteria for fetal and neonatal hepatic mineral concentrations are not well established. The objective of this study was to generate preliminary criteria for assessing bovine fetal and neonatal hepatic mineral concentrations.